NYTimes.com - Game Theory- Making Room for the Women.Unfortunately this rise in so-called casual play has upset some of those who see themselves as guardians of the true flame. There’s been a definite backlash against the idea that women are entering the hallowed citadel, dropping in a few scatter cushions and ending all the fun. Particular ire is reserved for anyone who dares to point out that female characters in games are often unsupported in the bra region for no apparent reason; given boring, bland supporting roles; and totally absent.

Overon wrote on Dec 26, 2012, 13:06:Game makers can do what they want, but if they want to appeal to women, half the population, then they can do far better than they are doing now.

Games are misogynistic overall. They perpetuate stereotypes more often than not, and don't challenge people's fixed beliefs in general. Games can be more than what they are now. Books can be controversial, they can challenge people's fixed beliefs and so far, games have not been generally able to do this.

"Gaming", in general is akin to books and you find games of all variety from tabletop or board games to casual video games to 3D Shooters and many others. 3D shooters are generally misogynistic because they are the paperback romance novels of the computer world. You wouldn't be arguing that paperback novels should try to reach a broader audience would you. Certainly there are books of all type, and there are games of all types. Some games have found their nitch among boys, some among men, some among girls and some among women. There is plenty of cross-over, but just as most books and movies appeal to a limits demographic so will games continue to do so.